Armature Test

Remove the starter.
Disassemble the starter.
Inspect the armature for wear or damage from contact with the permanent magnet. If there is wear or damage, replace the armature.

Fig 1: Checking Armature
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Check the commutator surface "A". If surface "A" is dirty or burnt, resurface with emery cloth or a lathe, If surface "B" is dirty or burnt, recondition with #500 or #600 sandpaper.

Fig 2: Checking Commutator
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Check the commutator diameter. If the diameter is below the service limit, replace the armature.
Commutator diameter

Standard (New) : 29.4 mm (1.1575 in)

Service limit : 28.8 mm (1.1339 in)

Fig 3: Checking Commutator Diameter
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Measure the commutator runout. If the commutator runout is within the service limit, check the commutator for carbon dust or brass chips between the segments. If the commutator run out is not within the service limit, replace the armature.
Commutator runout

Standard (New): 0.02mm (0.0008in.) max

Service limit: 0.05mm (0.0020in.)

Fig 4: Measuring Commutator Runout
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Check the mica depth "A". See STARTER SPECIFICATIONS . If the mica "B" is too high, undercut the mica with a hacksaw blade to the proper depth. Cut away all the mica "C" between commutator segments. The undercut should not be too shallow, too narrow or v-shaped "D".

Fig 5: Checking Mica Depth
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Check for continuity between the segments of the commutator. If an open circuit exists between any segments, replace the armature.

Fig 6: Checking Armature
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Check with an ohmmeter that no continuity exists between the commutator (A) and armature coil core (B), and between the commutator and armature shaft (C). If continuity exists, replace the armature.

Fig 7: Checking Ohmmeter
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.